2012 AfCON Winning Skipper Christopher Katongo Off to Ivory Coast

2012 AfCON Winning Skipper Christopher Katongo Off to Ivory Coast

Christopher Katongo, the legendary Zambian footballer who captained the Chipolopolo Boys to their historic Africa Cup of Nations (AfCON) victory in 2012, has left the country to fulfill his duties as an official ambassador for Zambia at the ongoing 2023 AfCON finals in Ivory Coast.

Katongo, whose leadership and influence on the pitch were instrumental in Zambia’s historic triumph, was chosen by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to be part of a group of 25 former footballing greats representing their respective nations at the tournament. Ivory Coast is the only country with two representatives on the list.

The former striker expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and his commitment to inspiring the current generation of African footballers on social media, saying, “Thank you CAF for choosing to make me an ambassador together with other African Legends and getting me to be part of the 2023 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.”

Katongo, currently a member of the coaching staff at Zambian Super League side Forest Rangers, emphasized the honor he felt and his dedication to the development of the game. “It’s a huge honor and am greatly humbled, and I will be of service to inspire African Football,” he stated.

The 41-year-old concluded by pledging his unwavering support to the current Zambian national team, the Copper Bullets. “To the Copper Bullets am coming, let’s do this together,” he declared.

Zambia’s AfCON journey kicks off with a crucial opening match against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday. Katongo’s presence among the team as an ambassador will undoubtedly offer invaluable guidance and inspiration as the Chipolopolo Boys aim to repeat their 2012 heroics on Ivorian soil.